Nightclubs may need to use antigen testing when they reopen to the public, the Art Minister has confirmed.

Ireland’s first club night in over 18 months is taking place in the Button Factory in Dublin tonight.

The 450 people attending the pilot event will need to show their Digital COVID Cert and proof of a negative antigen test to get in.

Speaking at a launch event in the club this afternoon, Minister Martin said clubs may require the tests when they reopen on October 22nd.

“It is maybe something they will need so that is why we are seeing the effect of it and the impact of antigen testing tonight,” she said.

“So, no clear decision has been made on that. The expert advisory group on antigen testing is due to report in the coming days and these are the sorts of issues we asked them to examine so it will help to have this done.”

Tonight’s event is being rolled out by Hidden Agenda Ltd/District 8 and features acts like Cailín, R.Kitt, Sunil Sharpe, DART, Kelly Anne Byrne, Sim Simma, Breen, Cáit and Sam Greenwood.

Minister Martin said it marks a small step forward for a sector that has been decimated by the COVID restrictions.

“There are many challenges ahead for the live performance sector, particularly in a post-Covid-19 context, and it is essential that we continue to learn from pilots such as this one,” she said.

The Button Factory will be at 60% capacity for the show with attendees “allowed to behave as normal within the club.”

They will have to provide full contact details on arrival and wear masks while queuing to get in and leaving.

The ventilation system will be maximised and CO2 levels monitored throughout the night.